14 DAYS / 13 NIGHTS

In Panama, visit the Embera community in Chagres National Park; El Valle, a picturesque mountain town; and the San Blas Islands.

In Costa Rica visit Monteverde cloud forest and the Arenal Volcano.

For more options in Central America see our tours in the neighboring countries.

Itinerary:

DAY 1:  Arrive Panama

Arrive at Panama International Airport, where you will be met by our representative and be taken to your hotel in Panama City.  Overnight stay at hotel in the city.

DAY 2:  Chagres National Park / Indian Village

After breakfast visit a paradise found in its purest form. This tour leaves Panama City at 8:30 AM and begins with a ride in a "piragua" (a native boat) along the route commonly used by the Indians for their daily transport along the Chagres River. A hike through a forest follows, with a local indigenous guide and an expert guide to explain botanical novelties and the culture of this authentic Chocoe-Embera village. In the village, the tribe will share their culture through dances, rituals, food, etc. You will have the opportunity to partake in "jagua", body painting with vegetable ink. Arrival back in Panama City is estimated at 4:30 PM. (BL)

DAY 3:  EL VALLE MOUNTAIN TOWN

This excursion begins early with a two-hour drive along the Pan-American Highway to the beautiful mountain town of El Valle de Anton in the province of Cocle. According to geologists, El Valle is the crater of a dormant volcano, probably the largest in Central America. With a cool and pleasant climate, this picturesque valley rises 600 meters above sea level and has a great variety of attractions such as Indian petroglyphs, hot springs, waterfalls, rock climbing and a variety of hikes for all abilities. Upon arrival, visit the Sunday Indian Market where large selections of native and national handicrafts are on sale. The tour continues with a visit to the ancient petroglyphs of the El Chorro Macho Waterfall and a trip to the Nispero Gardens and Zoo where you can observe the rare “golden frogs” found only in this area. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Return to Panama City in the late afternoon. (BL)

DAY 4:  SAN BLAS ISLANDS

Early morning departure for a 20-minute flight to El Porvenir airstrip on Panama’s Atlantic Coast. Transfer by motorized dugout canoe to the Kuna Lodge on the Island of Wichub-Wala. The lodge is in the core of the Kuna community and has a capacity for 24 guests. The lodge has outside, fresh water showers and toilets. Visit the surrounding islands and home of the Kuna Indians whose culture, traditions and beautiful beaches remain virtually undisturbed. Tour Grass Island and relax at one of the numerous beautiful beaches. Featuring delicious San Blas seafood at lunch and dinner. Night at San Blas Hotel. (BLD)

DAY 5:  SAN BLAS ISLANDS

Rent (or bring your own) snorkeling gear and explore the beautiful reefs of this area. You can also tour a neighboring island and swim in crystal-clear waters. Relax on white sand beaches or in a hammock under palms while enjoying this unique destination. (BLD)

Day 6:  PANAMA CITY

Early morning return from San Blas for flight back to Panama City. Free afternoon for relaxing and shopping. Show and folkloric dinner at Tinajas Restaurant. Overnight at a hotel in the city. (BD)

Day 7:  DEPART PANAMA / ARRIVE COSTA RICA

Transfer to the international airport approximately two hours before your flight’s scheduled departure time. Transfer from Costa Rican airport to Comfort Real Hotel (or similar) in Santa Ana, 25 miles from the airport. (No meals.)

Day 8:  TRANSFER TO THE PACIFIC COAST

Lodging at Tamarindo Diria Hotel. This is an ideal place to spend a peaceful yet exciting stay on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast. Remodeled with a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere, the hotel boasts of fine national and international cuisine and a full breakfast buffet. Optional tours: horseback riding, fishing and wildlife observation. (B)

Day 9:  TAMARINDO DIRIA HOTEL

After breakfast visit the Mangrove estuary. Includes drinks, fruits, transport and park fees. (B)

Day 10:  TRANSFER TO MONTEVERDE

Visit the Butterfly Farm and Nature Center, where there is an extensive collection of insects and a medicinal plant garden. Lodging at Trapp Family Hotel (or similar), where you are surrounded by the cloud forest. (B)

Day 11:  TRAPP FAMILY HOTEL (OR SIMILAR) / SKY WALK

Enjoy an outstanding view of the cloud forest from the hanging bridges, platforms and trails in the tree canopy. Information about the ecosystem will be provided in a guided tour. (B)

Day 12:  TRANSFER TO ARENAL / Volcano Lodge (or similar)

This is a beautiful area offering a panoramic view of the Arenal volcano and the nearby tropical rainforest. The lodge is in the forest and all rooms have a terrace overlooking the volcano. (B)

Day 13:  Transfer from Arenal to San José / Comfort real hotel (or similar)

Visit Zarcero Town and Sarchi, the center of production of the country’s colorful ox carts. You will see artisans at work and purchase exquisite hand-carved items. (B)

Day 14:  DEPART COSTA RICA

Transfer from the hotel to the international airport. (B)